"an international organization dedicated to promoting the use and
protection of works of the human spirit. These works -- intellectual
property -- are expanding the bounds of science and technology and
enriching the world of the arts. Through its work, WIPO plays an
important role in enhancing the quality and enjoyment of life, as well
as creating real wealth for nations."

For anyone involved in questions of freedom in a digital age, such as
Free Software Foundation Europe, WIPO is often at the root of current
threats, such as software patents, the
European Copyright Directive (EUCD) and
others. When these come to a European or national level, we often find
that little room for change exists.

Instead of reacting to legislative projects individually when they are
passed down, Free Software Foundation Europe is proactively
facilitating more useful legislation at its root, the
global level, in which WIPO is one key player. For that reason,
FSFE has requested observer status to WIPO in 2003, which was
granted during the Assemblies of the Member States of WIPO from
September 27 to October 5, 2004.

Together with a global coalition of other players with similar goals,
FSFE will work to change the "World Intellectual Property Organization"
into a "World Intellectual Wealth
Organisation."